As Woods Bagot marks 25 years in the Middle East, we reflect not only on the projects we have delivered, but on the relationships, partnerships, and shared ambitions that have shaped our journey. Over the last quarter century, we have had the privilege of working alongside visionary clients across the region, contributing to some of its most significant places and helping support the transformation of cities, industries, and communities.

Our story in the Middle East spans a wide range of sectors and disciplines and has evolved alongside the region itself. From architecture and interiors to urban design and large-scale masterplanning, we have sought to create places that respond to both immediate needs and long-term aspirations.

Some of our earliest projects set the tone for the approach that continues to guide us today. Qatar Science and Technology Park helped establish a platform for innovation and research, supporting the development of a growing knowledge economy. This was followed by the IRENA Headquarters for Masdar City Abu Dhabi, a project that demonstrated how architecture could respond to climate, sustainability, and performance while supporting the global conversation around responsible and sustainable development.

Through projects such as the Al Jada masterplan in Sharjah, we contributed to the vision for an entirely new urban community, helping create a framework for growth, connectivity, and everyday life. The project reflected a broader shift in our work towards shaping not only buildings, but the wider urban systems and experiences that support thriving cities.

This thinking carried through to projects such as City Walk Residences for Meraas, where the emphasis was on creating places that foster community, liveability, and a strong sense of belonging within a denser urban environment. Similarly, Bluewaters Retail helped activate one of Dubai’s prominent waterfront destinations, creating a vibrant mix of experiences that contribute to the city’s social and economic life while enhancing the public realm.

Supporting its role as a global destination, projects such as the Dubai Exhibition Centre for Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), developed for Expo2020, host events of international significance, bringing together people, industries and ideas from across the world.

Beyond landmark projects, much of our impact has come through the long-term relationships we have built with clients across the region. Many of these partnerships have evolved over years and even decades, enabling us to support changing ambitions across multiple projects, sectors, and stages of growth.

Our recently completed MC2 workplace development for Masdar City demonstrates how trusted partnerships can create opportunities to explore new ideas and contribute to the next chapter of sustainable urban development in the region.

Our journey on the evolution of The Dubai Design District (d3) masterplan for Dubai Holding contributes to the creation of a destination that brings together creative industries, workplaces, and public life within a cohesive framework. By helping establish the foundations for a thriving creative community, the project reflects a broader shift in urban development, one that recognises the value of culture, collaboration, and identity in shaping successful cities.

Our interiors work has also played an important role in shaping the region’s hospitality landscape. The interiors for 25hours Hotel One Central for DWTC / 25hours Hotel / Accor Hotels introduce a distinctive guest experience that celebrates Dubai’s energy, culture, and spirit of discovery.

Most recently, whilst projects such as the Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina for Select Group contribute to Dubai’s iconic skyline, its significance extends beyond its physical presence. It represents a growing focus on wellbeing, quality of life, and creating environments that support healthier, more connected communities, priorities that are increasingly shaping the future of cities worldwide.

The growth of our studios has mirrored this journey. From our early presence in the UAE to the expansion of our regional footprint, including Riyadh, our focus has remained on staying close to our clients, communities, and projects while bringing insights from our global practice.

As we look to the future, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead as part of the 7C Network. Together, Woods Bagot, ERA-co, Customs Bureau and Impact Futures bring a powerful mix of design, data, strategy, and human insight, expanding how we help clients create exceptional places, thriving communities, and lasting value. Building on 25 years of partnerships across the Middle East, we look forward to shaping the region’s next chapter and contributing to its ambitions in even more meaningful ways.

Media enquiries
Zulie Mason
Content and Communications Leader (Middle East)